Doctors Stand by Science, Keep Recommending All Vaccines

When the federal government removed vaccines for rotavirus, flu, and hepatitis A from its recommended schedule last week, America's top children's hospitals had a clear response: We're sticking with science.

Major pediatric centers from Seattle to Philadelphia told families they'll continue following guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics, not the new federal schedule. The Cleveland Clinic, Texas Children's Hospital, and Children's National in Washington, D.C. are among those keeping all vaccines available and recommended.

"I don't think that the vast majority of health care providers will change," said Dr. José Romero, a pediatrician and vaccine expert who previously chaired the government's vaccine advisory board. His prediction is already proving accurate.

The unified response from medical professionals offers stability for families navigating confusing headlines. Pediatricians hold the most sway in whether parents vaccinate their children, according to recent research and polling.

This isn't the first time doctors have stood firm on vaccine science. In December, when federal officials recommended delaying hepatitis B shots for newborns without new evidence, health systems across the country kept their existing protocols. Parents could still access the protection their babies needed.

Some states are going further to protect public health. Maryland and Minnesota have officially separated their vaccine policies from federal guidance. Other blue states created regional health authorities last year specifically to maintain evidence-based recommendations.

The Bright Side

Doctors choosing science over politics means families in most communities can still access the same proven protection against preventable diseases. Your pediatrician's office likely hasn't changed its recommendations at all.

The medical community's response shows how deeply trusted relationships between doctors and families can weather policy storms. When pediatricians explain why these vaccines matter, parents listen.

Even in states where officials embrace federal changes, individual practices can maintain higher standards of care. The doctor-patient relationship remains powerful.

Retired pediatrician Dr. Sean Palfrey from Boston Medical Center put it simply: "The stronger a stance that we, the pediatricians, take on getting vaccines, the better we are going to do keeping disease out of our kids."

The coming months will reveal the full impact of these federal changes. But for now, America's medical professionals are standing united in protecting the health gains that have saved countless young lives over decades.

When confusion strikes, pediatricians are choosing clarity, keeping kids healthy one appointment at a time.